Large-scale Production of Novel Porcine Circovirus Type 2d (PCV2d) Subunit Vaccine Using E. coli Platform

Abstract

Porcine Circovirus type 2d (PCV2d) is becoming the predominant PCV genotype and considerably affects the global pig industry. Nevertheless, currently no commercial PCV2d vaccine is available. Preventing and controlling the disease caused by PCV2d is therefore based on other genotype-based vaccines. However, their production platforms are laborious, limited in expression level and relatively expensive for veterinary applications. To address these challenges, we have developed a simple and cost-efficient platform for a novel PCV2d vaccine production platform, using fed-batch E. coli fermentation followed by cell disruption and filtration, and a single purification step via cation exchange chromatography. The process was developed at bench scale and then pilot scale where the PCV2d subunit protein yield was approximately 0.8 g/L fermentation volume in a short production time. Moreover, we have successfully implemented this production process at two different sites, in Southeast Asia and Europe. This demonstrates transferability and the high potential for successful industrial production.